Solar Energy UK
15 April 2026
Building a stronger domestic supply chain for renewable energy would strengthen the UK’s resilience to global energy shocks, says a paper from trade association Solar Energy UK, launched with ministerial endorsement in parliament yesterday.[1]
The UK’s solar and battery storage sectors contribute £1.9bn to the economy, a figure that could reach £5bn by 2035.[2] Their expansion is central to building a more dependable energy system, less vulnerable to events such as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
However, significant expenditure on hardware flows overseas. Bolstering domestic production of products such as cables, batteries, inverters and supporting structures would deepen resilience, create jobs and bolster economic growth across the UK.
The paper sets out how the Government and industry can grow the many UK businesses that already supply the sector, starting with a supply chain capability assessment modelled on the approach taken in the UK’s world-leading offshore wind industry.
It calls on the Government to provide greater clarity on the project pipeline beyond the Clean Power 2030 deadline, which would give British businesses the confidence to invest and scale up. With domestic manufacturers already developing products such as thin-film alternatives to conventional panels, targeted support for research and innovation could position the UK at the forefront of the next generation of solar and storage technology.
Hosting Solar Energy UK’s parliamentary reception yesterday evening, Ed Morello MP said that, “The case for clean, home-grown energy has never been stronger,” but, “a clear strategy is needed to incentivise R&D.” He described Solar Energy UK’s plan as, “a roadmap for strengthening the supply chain and ensuring that breakthroughs are commercialised here.”
Also attending the reception was Energy Minister Michael Shanks. He said: “Four years after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, we’re once again feeling the impact of volatile fossil fuel markets beyond our control. While we continue to fight for people’s corner, with action taken at the budget cutting the Energy Price Cap by £117 from April, we are also going further and faster on clean, homegrown energy by backing plug-solar and the future homes standard.”
“In delivering our mission, we are clear that we must support British businesses, skills and jobs, which is why we’re supporting British solar and battery supply chains,” he added.
Chris Hewett, Chief Executive of Solar Energy UK, said: “Every energy shock is a reminder of why clean power matters — and why we need to make more of it at home,” said. “The UK has world-class researchers and a rapidly growing market. This paper sets out how we turn that into a world-class supply chain.”
A big thank you to our Headline Sponsors EDF power solutions, and Title Sponsors SolarEdge Technologies, and Solarport, as well as everyone in attendance.
[1] Strengthening the UK Supply Chain: Policy Recommendations for Growth and Resilience – Solar Energy UK
[2] The Economic Impact of Solar and Battery Storage – Solar Energy UK
– ENDS –
Editor’s notes:
For more information or to request an interview, please contact:
Gareth Simkins, Senior Communications Adviser
news@solarenergyuk.org | solarenergyuk.org
About Solar Energy UK: Solar Energy UK is the largest trade association representing the solar and battery storage sector. It represents over 400 member organisations. Its membership includes companies working across both rooftop and ground-mounted solar – delivering projects that contribute to a clean, secure energy system and help reduce energy bills for homes and businesses.
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Gareth Simkins
Senior Communications Adviser
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